"Many people ask me why I don't have animals in my photographs. The answer is that it takes me a long time to set up the view camera, and by then, most of the animals are gone. This picture was an exception. These gators didn't seem frightened by people, which means people had better be cautious of them." - Clyde Butcher

Artist Clyde Butcher used a large format camera to capture this clearing by the Wakulla Springs in the Everglades. From a numbered edition of 7/100, this black and white gelatin silver print is installed at the Aviation Offices and viewing is by appointment only.

Artist Statement

"Wilderness to me is a spiritual necessity. When my son was killed by a drunk driver, it was to the wilderness that I fled in hope of regaining my serenity and equilibrium. The mysterious spiritual experience of being close to nature helped to restore my soul. It was during that time, I discovered the intimate beauty of Florida. My experience reinforced my sense of dedication to use my art form of photography as an inspiration for others to work together to save places of spiritual sanctuary for future generations."